Is LaCroix Just as Hydrating as Water? The Bubbly Truth Revealed

October 10, 2025 •

3 min read

According to a 2016 study using the Beverage Hydration Index (BHI), plain sparkling water is found to be just as hydrating as still water. This surprising fact often leads to the question: is LaCroix just as hydrating as water, and what, if any, are the real differences for your body?

Quick Summary

Plain sparkling water like LaCroix provides comparable hydration to plain water, as its main component is H₂O. The carbonation and natural flavors do not impede the body's hydration process, making it a valid, calorie-free alternative to help meet daily fluid intake goals. Some individuals might experience bloating from the bubbles, but the hydrating properties remain the same.

Key Points

Equally Hydrating: Research using the Beverage Hydration Index confirms that sparkling water, like LaCroix, is just as hydrating as plain water.
Primary Ingredient is Water: The carbonation in sparkling water does not inhibit the body's ability to absorb the water, which is its main component.
Encourages Consumption: For many people, the bubbles and flavor of LaCroix make drinking fluids more appealing, potentially increasing overall daily fluid intake.
Check for Additives: While plain LaCroix has no sugar or sodium, other brands of flavored sparkling water may contain additives that can impact health. Always read the label.
Potential for Bloating: The carbonation may cause bloating or a feeling of fullness in some individuals, which can potentially lead them to drink less.
Dental Risks are Minimal: The slight acidity from carbonation poses a low risk to dental health, especially compared to sugary sodas. Flavored versions with citric acid may increase this risk slightly over time.
Not Ideal for Workouts: Still water is a better choice during intense exercise to avoid the gas and bloating that can result from carbonation and vigorous movement.

The Science Behind Hydration: How Beverages Affect Your Body

Understanding how different beverages impact hydration is key. Hydration is vital for numerous bodily functions. While water is the standard, the Beverage Hydration Index (BHI) allows for comparison of other drinks.

What a 2016 Study Revealed about Sparkling Water

A 2016 study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition compared the hydrating effects of 13 beverages using the BHI, with water as the baseline (1.0). The results indicated that plain sparkling water has a BHI similar to still water, confirming it's equally hydrating. This is because sparkling water is primarily H₂O with dissolved carbon dioxide, which the body easily processes. The carbonation doesn't hinder water absorption.

The LaCroix Advantage: Encouraging Higher Fluid Intake

For those who find plain water unappealing, the flavors and carbonation in sparkling water like LaCroix can make hydration more enjoyable. This can lead to increased overall fluid consumption, which is beneficial for hydration.

Potential Downsides to Consider

Despite its hydrating benefits, sparkling water has potential drawbacks for some individuals.

Bloating and Gas: Carbonation can cause bloating, potentially reducing fluid intake. This is a consideration during exercise.
Exercise Hydration: Still water is often preferred during intense workouts for quick rehydration without the discomfort of bubbles.
Dental Health: Sparkling water's slight acidity from carbonic acid is less harmful than sugary sodas. However, flavored versions with citric acid may increase the risk of enamel erosion with high consumption over time.
Sodium Content: Plain LaCroix is sodium-free, but other brands may contain sodium, which is important to note for those on low-sodium diets.

Comparison Table: LaCroix vs. Water vs. Sugary Soda

Here's a comparison of hydration factors:


Feature	Plain Water	Plain LaCroix	Sugary Soda
Primary Ingredient	H₂O	H₂O + CO₂	H₂O + Sugar + Additives
Calories	0	0	140+ (per 12 oz can)
Sugar	0	0	39+ grams (per 12 oz can)
Hydration Effectiveness	High	High (equal to water)	Low (sugar can hinder)
Bloating Potential	Low	Moderate (for some)	Low
Dental Health Impact	None	Low (minimal risk)	High (significant risk)
Additional Nutrients	None	None	None

Making the Best Hydration Choice for You

Plain LaCroix and similar unsweetened sparkling waters are just as hydrating as still water. The choice often comes down to personal preference.

Tips for Optimal Hydration

Monitor your body: Note how carbonated drinks affect you; switch to still water if you experience discomfort.
Read labels: Check for added sugars, sweeteners, or sodium in flavored sparkling waters.
Diversify fluid sources: Combine still and sparkling water with other hydrating drinks like herbal tea.
Consider activity: Still water is typically better for intense exercise to avoid stomach upset.

Choosing a beverage you enjoy consistently is key to staying hydrated. If LaCroix helps you drink more, it's a good hydration option.

For further details on beverage hydration, consult the study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition(https://ajcn.nutrition.org/).

Conclusion: Finding Your Hydration Sweet Spot

Research confirms that unsweetened sparkling waters like LaCroix hydrate just as effectively as still water. The primary factor is whether the fizziness and flavor encourage you to drink enough fluids. Be mindful of potential bloating and consider still water during strenuous activity. Prioritize consistent fluid intake for overall health, using either sparkling or still options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, LaCroix counts towards your daily fluid intake. It is fundamentally water with added carbon dioxide, and studies show that sparkling water is just as effective for hydration as still water.

The carbonation in sparkling water can make you feel full or bloated, which may cause you to drink less volume than you would of still water. This sensation of fullness can sometimes be mistaken for being less hydrated.

Plain sparkling water poses a minimal risk to dental health. The carbonic acid it contains is far less acidic than the ingredients in sugary sodas. However, flavored varieties containing citric acid are slightly more acidic and could potentially contribute to enamel erosion over long-term, high-volume use.

Yes, LaCroix is a much healthier alternative to soda. It contains zero sugar, calories, and artificial sweeteners, providing hydration without the adverse health effects associated with high sugar intake.

While LaCroix is hydrating, it is not recommended for intense workouts. The carbonation can cause bloating and discomfort when combined with vigorous movement. Still water is a better choice for rapid rehydration during exercise.

The natural flavors in LaCroix do not affect its hydrating properties, as they are not accompanied by sugar or sweeteners that could impact fluid absorption. The body still processes the water content effectively.

The best way to stay hydrated is to choose a drink you enjoy and will consume consistently. If sparkling water encourages you to drink more, it's an excellent choice. You can also infuse still water with fruits or herbs for flavor.

Some sparkling mineral waters may contain naturally occurring electrolytes like sodium, which can offer a slight edge in fluid retention compared to plain water, especially after heavy sweating. However, the hydration difference is generally minimal for most people. Plain LaCroix and plain mineral water hydrate equally well on a fundamental level.